Arizona Feb. & March 2020

In mid-February 2020 we joined other Retired Washington State Patrol friends and their wives at Willy Johnson's winter home in Florence, AZ.  As always, this is an enjoyable event for reminiscing and getting caught up on everyone's retirement activities.

As citizen members of the local Arizona City Chamber of Commerce, we again volunteered to assist with the 2020 Arizona City Daze Celebration.  Above is the first entry in our parade...historic aircraft from the local airport performed a flyover that started the parade festivity!

Our local Arizona City Fire Department is a phenomenal contributor within our community.  Beyond fire safety and medical assistance, they contribute many services to the children, seniors, and needs of all who live in Arizona City.

This year's parade theme was "Blast from the Past".  Very active community member Frank McLaughlin (sitting in back seat) was chosen as the 2020 Grand Marshal.  Isn't this a terrific vehicle to escort Frank down the parade route?

The Arizona City Golfers went all out decorating their golf carts to  emphasize his year's theme.  These golf carts were among the multiple that headed down the parade route.   These two entries were the Fred and Wilma Flintstone cart and Bam Bam and Pebbles cart.

 Some of us remember the Flower children promoting peace, love, and "groovy"!  This golf cart was adorned to bring back those memories.  

The Sabbar Shriners from Tucson again joined our celebration.  These men in their mini cars definitely entertain the crowds.  We are all thankful for the many volunteer activities they provide for the families of Arizona.

The local Arizona City Elementary School won the Best in Show Youth award for their "Rolling Through the Years" entry that highlighted the railroads impact on westward expansion.  About 50 children participated in this entry.

A retired World War II Navy man and his son, a retired Air Force man greeted parade observers as they went down the route in their small train and caboose.

Our  neighbors who sponsor "Make Kids Smile" in Arizona City, presented Santa in his sleigh during the parade.  Note he was dressed for the "AZ sunshine" that we experienced this March.  The parade was a fun event that included many more entries from local businesses, sports enthusiasts, political interests, and local citizens.    Following the parade,  community members and visitors enjoyed the car show, shopping at the vendor booths, entertainment at the main stage, and food/beverage  services.